BMW’s new i3 electric hatch has double the range of its predecessor.
But it’s still far too expensive for mere mortals, with prices starting from $68,700.
The i3 and I3s are now capable of travelling up to 260km on a single charge, thanks to advances in battery technology.
Although the battery pack takes up no more space than in the original we drove, the battery rating is up from 60 to 120Ah giving it a storage capacity of 42kWh.
Performance is surprisingly good too.
Powered by a 125kW electric motor, the BMW i3 can accelerate from 0-100km/h in just 7.3 seconds.
The i3s brings a larger 135kW electric motor and does the dash in 6.9 seconds.
“BMW has once again demonstrated its technical capability in the EV space with the latest BMW i3 120Ah,” BMW Australia CEO, Vikram Pawah, said.
“Effectively doubling the real-world driving range from the i3’s 2013 global introduction, the newest addition to our BMW i stable remains a trailblazer.
“Beyond that, the constant evolution of materials and specification, as well as the i3s sports- focused variant, makes the car more relevant than ever.”
Available from February next year, the i3 is priced from $68,700 and the i3s from $69,900.
BMW i3 and i3s: Charging rates:
|
Charging 0-80%* |
i3 120Ah |
i3s 120Ah |
|
Domestic 1.8kW |
19.5 hrs |
19.5 hrs |
|
WallBox (1-phase) 3.7kW |
9.7 hrs  |
9.7 hrs |
|
WallBox (3-phase) 11kW |
3.2 hrs |
3.2 hrs |
|
DC 50kW |
42 mins |
42 mins |
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